Mr. Robert Warren Shelton, age 83, of Hartwell and Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital.

Robert was born in April 1943 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to the late Eugene and Rusty Shelton.

An innovative businessman with an entrepreneurial spirit, Robert spent 25 years in the automobile industry before founding and operating two telephone calling card companies that helped pioneer the prepaid calling card industry: USA Calling in Atlanta, Georgia, and Canada Calling in Montreal, Quebec. He was never afraid to embrace new ideas and took great pride in building successful businesses through innovation, hard work, determination, and vision.

In retirement, Robert enjoyed spending time on his computer and following politics and current events. His love of automobiles never faded, particularly sports cars and exotic automobiles, and he remained an avid enthusiast throughout his life.

Robert played college football at NC State University and remained a devoted football fan throughout his life. He also had a lifelong passion for NASCAR racing.

Robert was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband and father whose quiet strength, dependability, and generous heart enriched the lives of those closest to him. He took great pride in the life he built with his family and will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, resilience, and the steadfast love and support he gave throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ginger Shelton; his daughter, Samantha Shelton; his cherished granddaughter, Emily Rose Shelton; and his brother-in-law, Mike Rapp.

Robert leaves behind a legacy of innovation, perseverance, and love. His memory will live on in the family he cherished and in the many lives he touched through his determination and kindness.

A celebration of Robert's life will be announced at a later date.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Coile and Hall Funeral Directors and Crematory, 333 East Johnson Street, Hartwell, GA